Flammable and combustible (F&C) liquids constitute, by far, the largest group of hazardous materials commonly used in Queensland. Because of their potential to cause, or exacerbate a fire, they are considered to present such a large risk that special provision for their storage and handling are needed.
The Dangerous Goods Safety Management Act 2001 (DGSM Act) was introduced to protect people, property and the environment from harm caused by hazardous materials. Under the DGSM Act, authority is devolved to Local Governments to licence premises where F&C liquids are stored and to set and enforce licence conditions.
A licence is required for any premises where the quantity of liquids stored exceeds the minor storage exemption limits set out in the Australian Standard - AS1940 "The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids".
Flammable and Combustible Liquids